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Journey into the Unknown

“Happiness is not a state to arrive at, but a manner of traveling.” Margaret Lee Runback

This is a post of mine from 2012. I decided to re-post it as a reminder to myself and others to enjoy the journey and embrace the unknown. Blessings along the path, Brad

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This could be a bumpy ride. We are traveling the land of the soul where mystery abounds. We may find gold, beauty, joy or we may find dirt, darkness, and fear. The difference is often born of our choices. Thus begins our journey into the unknown.

Recently, I’ve been feeling stuck, not knowing my life’s work or purpose. This has been an ongoing quest for almost 40 years. I’m usually amazed and envious of anyone who knows what they want to do with their life. This question of purpose has been an unknown and seemingly unknowable thing.

I’m understanding that my attachment to knowing is part of the problem, creating a resistance to what is. I demand answers of myself, God, friends, or anyone who will listen. This morning I realized the first step must be acceptance of myself and the not knowing. Thankfully, I practiced compassionate self-dialogue, helping to shift my state of being. One of my recurring lessons is acceptance. I’m learning to accept all of myself; the easy to love aspects, as well as the aspects that I judge wrong, bad, or unloveable.

I’ve decided to transform this journey into the unknown. Instead of an anxious, forced pushing for answers, I’m choosing to be more open and curious about unfolding my life’s path. My path is now one of discovery, where I treasure each step, each discovery, and even the mystery itself.

Life can become a grand treasure hunt. We may find gold, dirt, or something entirely new. We don’t always know the answers to our questions. I’m learning to embrace the unknown. Let’s switch from a deadly serious hunt for THE answer, to a playful and mysterious journey into the unknown, where each day brings new and exciting adventures.

Choice is one of our greatest powers, but we must claim it by accepting the responsibility. Most of us consider responsibility to be a heavy burden, but what if it’s simply the ability to respond. We can choose how we respond to life with as much love, care, and wisdom as possible. When we fall, it’s no big deal. We say oops, get up, and try something new. The journey continues. We must be willing to take the steps, to fall, to get up, and to keep going. I believe the discontent we feel is the divine asking us to get up and keep moving, growing with life.

Onward we go on this journey of life, filled with beautiful mysteries and wonders to behold. All we need are the fresh eyes of a child. Letting go of our attachment to good and bad, life can bring us what is truly best. Then, we can begin to enjoy the ride as we journey into the unknown.

You certainly write beautifully. You said, “I’m understanding that my attachment to knowing is part of the problem, creating a resistance to what is.” I can totally resonate with this. It was worse for me a few years back when I have not reached this level of peace. I sought help, I went for a number of divination readings and I tried to will myself to meditate for answers LOL! They did not work in that I was not able to get perfect and complete answers.

I have stopped doing too much planning ahead. I have found that the reality do not always go according to plan. I had to deal with the suffering from being attached to results. So now, I learn to sit with the flow of discomfort. And sometimes the answers for what’s next will come in the silence.

I really appreciate you visiting my blog. And thanks for the commpliment on my writing. It helps to be acknowledged. I enjoy your blog, wisdom & facebook posts. Effort or force hasn’t worked well for me, especially in matters of spirit and heart. Sometimes I “achieved” goals with strong effort that I later regretted.

thanks for visiting. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Knowing that someone likes my writing helps with keeping it going.
I stopped by your blog. Sounds like a brave journey you are on. I hope you keep on with grace & peace.

Oh Brad, I hear every word…as you know I’ve been on such a similar journey. And yes, self acceptance, surrendering to not knowing, nor needing to, are very beautiful and powerful things to discover along the way. I believe that’s when we allow the ‘next’ to flow through us.
Wishing you all the best too. Thank you for a touching post…
Hug from Di 💐✨✨

This a profound piece of writing Brad.. Really enjoyed it my friend.. and this paragraph struck a chord with me..

” Life can become a grand treasure hunt. We may find gold, dirt, or something entirely new. We don’t always know the answers to our questions. I’m learning to embrace the unknown. Let’s switch from a deadly serious hunt for THE answer, to a playful and mysterious journey into the unknown, where each day brings new and exciting adventures.”

May we keep exploring, and and finding those hidden gems within each step we take..
Lots of Love sent your way my good friend..
Sue 🙂 🙂

You know, I was reading this book a while back and there was a line there that reminded me of what you just wrote and it kinda stuck with me. Something about looking at a person who was doing what they were born to do – few people ever achieve that…and I stopped and thought…dang I want/need that in my life. Sometimes in the rush to find what we are meant to do we forget to enjoy the journey. It’s cool that you never stop searching and are enjoying the process. I am looking forward to reading more about it especially when you do find what “sets your soul on fire.” 😊

Thanks Bel. It’s more like an intention to both keep searching and enjoy the process. I’ve found many things that light my fire, but none yet that seem like a vocation/ calling. Best wishes on your journey. 🙂